For those of us attending the Anchorage Assembly Meetings, it has been a long and somewhat difficult week. One could write extensively about the testimonies on the proposed inclusion of sexual orientation in the city's code on nondiscrimination. Any writer could publish reams about how the information that comes forth in one comment seems to cancel out the opinions in another, or about how much repetition there has been through the course of the testimonies. However, those of us in the audience can at least get up and leave the room. Before going on to the main point of this post, let it be known that Anchorage Assembly members deserve considerable credit for their determination to hear comments from so many community members. We have gone beyond the 500 mark, and have more to go. Kudos to them.
As for the rest of us, perhaps it is time to take the lemons and make some lemonade - Here is a suggestion that is circulating for next week's meeting:
Since so many community members are gathering in one place at the Anchorage Assembly Meetings, what say we take the opportunity to have a food and clothing drive? (This is still in the organizing stage, so new suggestions and organizing ideas will be posted as they come forth.)
Here are a few charities and specific needs that can be filled:
Brother Francis:
One of the most needed items are SHOES, Underwear, socks
Other needs are food and other clothing items
AWAIC:
Most needed, clothing, but especially Bed Linens, PJ's & Underwear for women and children,
Food Bank (tentative drop off site at the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church)
Nonperishable Food items
Covenant House - has a request for clothes appropriate to wear for job searches, particularly belts to hold up those saggy jeans!
Lemons from Lemonade - let's use some of that energy that is being spent to deal with the difficult issue of the new wording in the nondiscrimination ordinance to help some of those most in need in our community.
Come on Anchorage, let's rock.
(More information will be posted here as plans gel for this donation drive.)
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Visiting with the Neighbors at C4P
Recently there has been considerable dialogue between some of the followers of Mudflats and Celtic Diva with commentors and bloggers at the site Conservatives for (oops - make that 4) Palin. The discussion was initially prompted by mutual agreement on the virtues of the First Amendment and the rights and privileges of anonymity. It wasn't long before the battles renewed, with occasional acknowledgments of a good point or an appreciation of respectful exchanges. This was the second time there has been a brief ceasefire to salute our common right of anonymous free speech. The first time was when the Mudflats writer was 'outed' against her will. At C4P I joined the foray for a while and did gain some significant insight.
Right after the election, I was sure the best way to proceed positively was to find ways to bridge the differences between all of us. I even put up another blog site just to serve the purpose of collecting stories about how we would accomplish such a lofty goal. There is still a link to it here in the side bar - I named it Visions Beyond Divisions - well, it has sat there, lonely and unvisited ever since. Actually, I think two or three of my closest friends might have looked at it. Other than that it has been deserted. And why? Perhaps we thrive better on conflict and perhaps conflict is what will ultimately bring us together to work things out. It has always been a miss-perception that attaining peace is a neat and tidy process. As people our thoughts and processes are messy, and making peace is messy, too. As events develop and we are forced to see where our opponents were either more correct than we could have imagined or falling off the edge of reality, maybe we can all touch base again, visiting from time to time and see how our perceptions may have changed.
Personally, though I don't support much of what Sarah Palin does, I cringe at the thought of her many supporters suffering disappointment. She represents important values that her followers don't see elsewhere. I am not saying that those values aren't represented elsewhere, I am saying that she is the person whom they identify with. It is always discouraging to feel that you are not represented in government. Many of us understand that all to well and have suffered that discouragement for the eight years before the last election. But our hopes will be tempered by reality as well. We will still have to work hard for what we believe in.
As far as our discussions through blogs, comments and participatory media goes, dialogue via these channels is a still quite the new thing, I expect we will be working the bugs out for some time to come. We can do great good and great harm, perhaps even at the same time if we are not careful. I hope that in the end, we can support each other through our disappointments and cling to the truth, that we are all in this together, whether we agree or not. (Except, perhaps, for Texas, which I have heard recently, may have other ideas. Remember the Alamo!)
So here is a shout out to all my friends at Mudflats, to Celtic Diva, to Shannon Moore and to all the folks at Conservatives4Palin. May we have our wonderful and messy peace some day, and good luck in the battle!
Right after the election, I was sure the best way to proceed positively was to find ways to bridge the differences between all of us. I even put up another blog site just to serve the purpose of collecting stories about how we would accomplish such a lofty goal. There is still a link to it here in the side bar - I named it Visions Beyond Divisions - well, it has sat there, lonely and unvisited ever since. Actually, I think two or three of my closest friends might have looked at it. Other than that it has been deserted. And why? Perhaps we thrive better on conflict and perhaps conflict is what will ultimately bring us together to work things out. It has always been a miss-perception that attaining peace is a neat and tidy process. As people our thoughts and processes are messy, and making peace is messy, too. As events develop and we are forced to see where our opponents were either more correct than we could have imagined or falling off the edge of reality, maybe we can all touch base again, visiting from time to time and see how our perceptions may have changed.
Personally, though I don't support much of what Sarah Palin does, I cringe at the thought of her many supporters suffering disappointment. She represents important values that her followers don't see elsewhere. I am not saying that those values aren't represented elsewhere, I am saying that she is the person whom they identify with. It is always discouraging to feel that you are not represented in government. Many of us understand that all to well and have suffered that discouragement for the eight years before the last election. But our hopes will be tempered by reality as well. We will still have to work hard for what we believe in.
As far as our discussions through blogs, comments and participatory media goes, dialogue via these channels is a still quite the new thing, I expect we will be working the bugs out for some time to come. We can do great good and great harm, perhaps even at the same time if we are not careful. I hope that in the end, we can support each other through our disappointments and cling to the truth, that we are all in this together, whether we agree or not. (Except, perhaps, for Texas, which I have heard recently, may have other ideas. Remember the Alamo!)
So here is a shout out to all my friends at Mudflats, to Celtic Diva, to Shannon Moore and to all the folks at Conservatives4Palin. May we have our wonderful and messy peace some day, and good luck in the battle!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Easter Pause - and Good Reading
I suspect most if not all of the readers who make their way here are Mudflats migrants, but if not, please visit Mudflats to read the letter posted on Easter Sunday. It is from one of the people who has participated in the food drive for rural Alaska. I don't want to give the story away, but get your Kleenex out, and be prepared for a wonderful and moving story.
As we work toward a better world both through positive action and a healthy critique of politics, policies and politicians, I am thankful for today and other reminders to keep the faith.
A Joyous and Blessed Easter to you.
As we work toward a better world both through positive action and a healthy critique of politics, policies and politicians, I am thankful for today and other reminders to keep the faith.
A Joyous and Blessed Easter to you.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
More On Ross - still NO
Wayne Anthony Ross wrote his own letter in response to allegations that he had made comments supporting spousal rape and domestic violence. So for the sake of argument, let's say he is right that someone really was impersonating him and that Leah Burton who made the original allegations by letter describing the comments and then testified by phone in his confirmation hearings was fooled. However, Ross' response letter has its own problems.
In a lengthy and long-winded rebuttal to Burton's accusations, Ross relates a plethora of unrelated information and fills the letter with personal stories of little relevance. This speaks poorly of his capacity to function appropriately as an Attorney General. The letter was unprofessional, and shows no ability to come to a clear cut analysis of a problem and respond accordingly. We don't need to know when he first had sex, or that he opens doors for women to be assured that he isn't a misogynist. Unfortunately, neither of those things is any indication that he is not.
Add to this his assertion during his confirmation hearing that the allegations raised against him for making comments that showed he approved of spousal rape and domestic violence were actually insults to his wife because she wouldn't have put up with him if he could say those things, so therefore the accusation as a insult to her whom he must protect. This seems to be a weird attempt to divert the issue. At the least it is convoluted reasoning, at worst it is a feeble attempt to deflect further inquiry. It seems he is trying to infer that anyone questioning him on whether or not he has made comments of this sort is insulting his wife and that he just can't stand for that!
In questioning Ross, Republican Senator Jay Ramras brought up the ethics complaint filed against the governor for wearing Arctic Cat logo emblazoned gear when acting in official capacity at the Iron Dog Race. Ramras noted that the governor often took provocative actions. Ross 'cut in' with a comment that "Yes she was provocative. Didn't she look good in the outfit?" Somehow this does not reassure some of us that he sees women as more than sex objects. Not to mention that it doesn't speak well for his interest in taking ethics complaints seriously.
Putting it mildly, these kinds of responses do not bode well for Ross' abilities to take on the role of Attorney General. And don't forget his continuing inability to speak respectfully of Alaska Natives and their concerns. So past comments notwithstanding, whether they are fairly attributed to him or not, are somewhat dwarfed by his inability to reply appropriately to the concerns they raise. His poor responses cast a long shadow over any favorable assessment of Ross' abilities. An adamant and impassioned response does not equal an adequate response. The question is, will the legislators notice?
Ramras was also quoted as saying that Ross is an interesting person and he looks forward to getting to know him in his new role as AG. So, I wish somebody would remind him, he can do that over a beer and a poker game. No need to name him Attorney General to achieve that goal.
Side note: Ross's letter was written on Alaska Department of Law letterhead and he signed as Attorney General. Aren't we getting ahead of ourselves?Again and once again?
In a lengthy and long-winded rebuttal to Burton's accusations, Ross relates a plethora of unrelated information and fills the letter with personal stories of little relevance. This speaks poorly of his capacity to function appropriately as an Attorney General. The letter was unprofessional, and shows no ability to come to a clear cut analysis of a problem and respond accordingly. We don't need to know when he first had sex, or that he opens doors for women to be assured that he isn't a misogynist. Unfortunately, neither of those things is any indication that he is not.
Add to this his assertion during his confirmation hearing that the allegations raised against him for making comments that showed he approved of spousal rape and domestic violence were actually insults to his wife because she wouldn't have put up with him if he could say those things, so therefore the accusation as a insult to her whom he must protect. This seems to be a weird attempt to divert the issue. At the least it is convoluted reasoning, at worst it is a feeble attempt to deflect further inquiry. It seems he is trying to infer that anyone questioning him on whether or not he has made comments of this sort is insulting his wife and that he just can't stand for that!
In questioning Ross, Republican Senator Jay Ramras brought up the ethics complaint filed against the governor for wearing Arctic Cat logo emblazoned gear when acting in official capacity at the Iron Dog Race. Ramras noted that the governor often took provocative actions. Ross 'cut in' with a comment that "Yes she was provocative. Didn't she look good in the outfit?" Somehow this does not reassure some of us that he sees women as more than sex objects. Not to mention that it doesn't speak well for his interest in taking ethics complaints seriously.
Putting it mildly, these kinds of responses do not bode well for Ross' abilities to take on the role of Attorney General. And don't forget his continuing inability to speak respectfully of Alaska Natives and their concerns. So past comments notwithstanding, whether they are fairly attributed to him or not, are somewhat dwarfed by his inability to reply appropriately to the concerns they raise. His poor responses cast a long shadow over any favorable assessment of Ross' abilities. An adamant and impassioned response does not equal an adequate response. The question is, will the legislators notice?
Ramras was also quoted as saying that Ross is an interesting person and he looks forward to getting to know him in his new role as AG. So, I wish somebody would remind him, he can do that over a beer and a poker game. No need to name him Attorney General to achieve that goal.
Side note: Ross's letter was written on Alaska Department of Law letterhead and he signed as Attorney General. Aren't we getting ahead of ourselves?Again and once again?
Friday, April 10, 2009
No Wayne, No Way
Governor Palin's choice for Attorney General? Simply put - No.
If you have not already heard about the letter from Leah Burton about comments made by Governor Palin's choice for Alaska's Attorney General Wayne Anthony Ross concerning justification of rape and domestic violence, allow me to direct you to Celtic Diva's site to read the whole text. In her letter, Burton quotes Ross as having said "If a man can't rape his wife, who can he rape?"
I don't have the heart to address the full extent of the damage he could cause as attorney general if he holds this belief. In Alaska, we have the highest rate of reported forcible rape in the country. We also have a rate high for domestic violence.
If you didn't hear his insulting and demeaning comments concerning Alaska Natives and their protections under federal law, please check it out at Mudflats. He actually believes that when Alaska Natives went to the federal government to assure that they would have their legally proscribed subsistence rights when the state wouldn't cooperate as 'crying to momma'. Wayne has explained away some of his past comments about Alaska Natives, sovereignty and subsistence as being comments that were from 'other times' but these comments are current and reflect similar views.
Ross is evidently not aware that for every tribal group across the nation, their primary governmental relationships rest with the federal government, not with state government. Where it is necessary to assure that laws are followed and rights respected, it is common practice to work with the federal government which has acted on behalf of tribes in legal proceedings when securing treaty designated fishing rights and hunting rights. Though Alaska Natives have a different history with the federal government from most of Native peoples and are not treaty tribes in the strict sense of the term, it has been established that the federal government offers them similar protections. Ross' comments would certify him for the lawyer's equivalent of the extreme fringe, uneducated and ill-informed, if he were making these comments in the lower 48. His nomination as Attorney General, especially in a state with a significant Native population would be addressed with the scorn it deserves. In this case, it is more than disturbing since the governor actually believes he is the best choice for the position.
And those statistics mentioned earlier about rape and domestic violence? As a state we are among the worst, and as a population in our state, Alaska Native women take the largest brunt of the abuse. So when it comes to adding insult to injury, Ross goes double for them.
No drama needed, our legislature should not even need to see any protesting to know this appointment is unpalatable. Just no way. Really.
If you have not already heard about the letter from Leah Burton about comments made by Governor Palin's choice for Alaska's Attorney General Wayne Anthony Ross concerning justification of rape and domestic violence, allow me to direct you to Celtic Diva's site to read the whole text. In her letter, Burton quotes Ross as having said "If a man can't rape his wife, who can he rape?"
I don't have the heart to address the full extent of the damage he could cause as attorney general if he holds this belief. In Alaska, we have the highest rate of reported forcible rape in the country. We also have a rate high for domestic violence.
If you didn't hear his insulting and demeaning comments concerning Alaska Natives and their protections under federal law, please check it out at Mudflats. He actually believes that when Alaska Natives went to the federal government to assure that they would have their legally proscribed subsistence rights when the state wouldn't cooperate as 'crying to momma'. Wayne has explained away some of his past comments about Alaska Natives, sovereignty and subsistence as being comments that were from 'other times' but these comments are current and reflect similar views.
Ross is evidently not aware that for every tribal group across the nation, their primary governmental relationships rest with the federal government, not with state government. Where it is necessary to assure that laws are followed and rights respected, it is common practice to work with the federal government which has acted on behalf of tribes in legal proceedings when securing treaty designated fishing rights and hunting rights. Though Alaska Natives have a different history with the federal government from most of Native peoples and are not treaty tribes in the strict sense of the term, it has been established that the federal government offers them similar protections. Ross' comments would certify him for the lawyer's equivalent of the extreme fringe, uneducated and ill-informed, if he were making these comments in the lower 48. His nomination as Attorney General, especially in a state with a significant Native population would be addressed with the scorn it deserves. In this case, it is more than disturbing since the governor actually believes he is the best choice for the position.
And those statistics mentioned earlier about rape and domestic violence? As a state we are among the worst, and as a population in our state, Alaska Native women take the largest brunt of the abuse. So when it comes to adding insult to injury, Ross goes double for them.
No drama needed, our legislature should not even need to see any protesting to know this appointment is unpalatable. Just no way. Really.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
WAYNE ANTHONY ROSS - State Website Confirms His Appointment
This just keeps getting better or worse depending on your point of view. I came back to add a note about the newly NOMINATED Wayne Anthony Ross being quoted in a press release from the governor - already being identified as AG, already agreeing with the governor's position on a very important and highly controversial issue (read below) and, though this shouldn't surprise me, after all that, check this out. The Alaska State website already has WAYNE ANTHONY ROSS in big letters as Alaska's Attorney General.
Two questions -
Is it appropriate or even legal to already be referring to him as AG when he has not yet been confirmed by the Alaska State Legislature?
Has he even had time to clear out of his private practice since he had such short notice that he was going to be tapped for AG?
(Make it three)
If he is still active in any way with his private practice, is he violating standards by supposedly acting as the state's Attorney General at the same time? which he isn't really, yet..but... OK, this is confusing.
Two questions -
Is it appropriate or even legal to already be referring to him as AG when he has not yet been confirmed by the Alaska State Legislature?
Has he even had time to clear out of his private practice since he had such short notice that he was going to be tapped for AG?
(Make it three)
If he is still active in any way with his private practice, is he violating standards by supposedly acting as the state's Attorney General at the same time? which he isn't really, yet..but... OK, this is confusing.
Bob Poe sides with Alaska Natives in opposition to WAR
Lat week the Alaska Federation of Natives and the Association of Village Council Presidents came out in opposition to Wayne Anthony Ross as Governor Palin's choice to fill the post of Attorney General - and as we just covered in the Who, What? post below, is already being referred to in the Gov's press release as having the AG title.
Bob Poe, who is planning to run for governor of Alaska in 2010 has issued a statement in solidarity with the two Alaska Native organizations.
Here is a portion of his statement:
Bob Poe has a website for those who are interested in learning more about his views and positions."The Attorney General is supposed to be Alaska's attorney to represent all Alaskans within the Executive Branch. We have already seen Governor Palin's first Attorney General lean too far to support the Governor's personal position in the matter concerning Commissioner Monegan, why now does she support a new appointment who is likely to broaden the gap between urban and rural Alaska. Isn't it time for the Governor to choose an Attorney General who will represent the needs of all Alaskans?" added Poe.
"In these challenging economic times we should be focused on working together as Alaskans, rural and urban, for our common future," said Poe. "Isn't it time Governor Palin show the leadership to pull Alaskans together, not drive us further apart? Mr. Ross' appointment, unfortunately, will be one that further divides us."
Who - What? Another Puzzling Press Release
...AND CLUES IN THE CASE OF ALASKA'S MISSING ATTORNEY GENERAL....
It seems the governor is once again asking us to know what she meant, though it isn't what she said. Alaska Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle were unsettled by her suggestion that her choice to replace Juneau's Democratic Senator be voted on by the whole legislature, Republicans and Democrats alike. But a newly printed press release says this was not the governor's intent.
According to this new statement from the governor's office, she only wants the process of voting on the her choice for the seat to be done in the open so that we will all know who voted to approve and who voted to reject her nominee.
But here is the real kicker - what happened to the temporary appointee who was assigned to take over as Attorney General when Talis Colberg resigned? On Februrary 10th, Alaskans were told that Deputy Attorney General for the Criminal Division Rick Svobodny would be the acting attorney general. Wouldn't he serve until the governor's appointee, Wayne Anthony Ross is confirmed by the legislature? Look who is quoted...with the title of Attorney General. And, it should be noted, is already issuing statements in support of the governor. (I will leave it to others to thoroughly rip into that topic. There is so much one could say....)
Actually, I take that back, screaming and the gnashing of teeth come to mind. And does this mean, in essence, that if Svobodny is not the current and acting AG, that Alaska doesn't have a legitimate Attorney General at this time?
Update - And, he is also on the state website as AG - ? Is this customary??
It seems the governor is once again asking us to know what she meant, though it isn't what she said. Alaska Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle were unsettled by her suggestion that her choice to replace Juneau's Democratic Senator be voted on by the whole legislature, Republicans and Democrats alike. But a newly printed press release says this was not the governor's intent.
According to this new statement from the governor's office, she only wants the process of voting on the her choice for the seat to be done in the open so that we will all know who voted to approve and who voted to reject her nominee.
Governor Requests Public Vote on Senate District B April 3, 2009, Juneau, Alaska – Governor Palin Thursday called for an open vote by the Senate on her appointment of Tim Grussendorf to the Alaska Senate. Concern has been expressed that a vote of the entire chamber on this appointment would be contrary to the practice and desires of political caucuses in the legislature.That in and of itself is confusing, and since it IS the Senate, perhaps it is not her business to tell them how to do theirs.
“...............The Senate can decide for itself who participates in the vote. I am simply requesting that the vote be done in public.”
But here is the real kicker - what happened to the temporary appointee who was assigned to take over as Attorney General when Talis Colberg resigned? On Februrary 10th, Alaskans were told that Deputy Attorney General for the Criminal Division Rick Svobodny would be the acting attorney general. Wouldn't he serve until the governor's appointee, Wayne Anthony Ross is confirmed by the legislature? Look who is quoted...with the title of Attorney General. And, it should be noted, is already issuing statements in support of the governor. (I will leave it to others to thoroughly rip into that topic. There is so much one could say....)
“The opinions of the Department of Law have been on the books for decades,” Attorney General Wayne Anthony Ross said. “I believe the legislature and the people have a right to know that there are legitimate legal concerns with the manner in which the Senate Democrats acted on the appointment of Mr. Grussendorf.”I have a hard time imaging what would have happened if Eric Holder had started sharing his opinions with the title of US Attorney General before his confirmation hearings.
Actually, I take that back, screaming and the gnashing of teeth come to mind. And does this mean, in essence, that if Svobodny is not the current and acting AG, that Alaska doesn't have a legitimate Attorney General at this time?
Update - And, he is also on the state website as AG - ? Is this customary??
Monday, March 30, 2009
Democrats Respond to Palin's Pick
The Democratic Party in Alaska has released a statement on Palin's pick for Kim Elton's replacement (See 'Sunday Special' post below). It is short and sweet - You can read it here. You won't need any help with the interpretation.
And if for some reason you missed it, Tim Grussendorf whom she picked to fill a Democratic seat in the state Senate, was registered as a Republican for the last couple of years, and only discovered the 'mistake' when he was preparing to apply for the Senate seat. How weird is that?
UPDATE - Tuesday - April 1 - It was reported that the Democrats in the Alaska State Legislature refused the appointment of Tim Grussendorf, after a closed door meeting. According to Anchorage Daily News, the dems are going to put together more names for the governor to choose from. Will she pick one of the suggested names or pull from the pool of 16 people who applied for the postion?
And if for some reason you missed it, Tim Grussendorf whom she picked to fill a Democratic seat in the state Senate, was registered as a Republican for the last couple of years, and only discovered the 'mistake' when he was preparing to apply for the Senate seat. How weird is that?
UPDATE - Tuesday - April 1 - It was reported that the Democrats in the Alaska State Legislature refused the appointment of Tim Grussendorf, after a closed door meeting. According to Anchorage Daily News, the dems are going to put together more names for the governor to choose from. Will she pick one of the suggested names or pull from the pool of 16 people who applied for the postion?
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Sunday Special - Palin Picks Elton Replacement - NOT Beth
I was in the midst of composing a post on press releases from the Governor's office (see below) and in my research, just found this.
Palin Names Grussendorf to Senate Seat
March 29, 2009, Juneau, Alaska - Governor Sarah Palin today named Tim Grussendorf as her designee to replace Kim Elton as the state senator from District B, representing the City and Borough of Juneau.Details >
If you are up on Alaska politics, you will know that the Democrats in the state legislature put forward one name and one name only as replacement for state Senator Kim Elton who was picked for a post in the Obama administration. They suggested Representative Beth Kerttula. Instead of accepting their suggestion, Palin asked for any and all interested parties to submit applications for the seat. Instead of picking someone who is already an elected official from Juneau, she has picked someone who
Mr. Grussendorf is probably a fine upstanding citizen, but he seems to have been put in the middle of conflict between the governor and Democrats in the legislature. The press release concludes:
So a press release about a controversial pick has emerged today, on a Sunday. I didn't know anybody in government offices wrote press releases on the weekends unless there is an emergency of some sort (like say, a volcanic eruption, see below), but the intricacies of government may just be beyond me today.
There are lots of other bloggers who will go into great depth with the meaning of this pick and its implications, so I will let you get it from the more knowledgeable folks who are deep into Alaska politics. But with everything else that has happened lately, it looks as though Governor Palin is trying to create a number of fights with her legislature.
Palin Names Grussendorf to Senate Seat
March 29, 2009, Juneau, Alaska - Governor Sarah Palin today named Tim Grussendorf as her designee to replace Kim Elton as the state senator from District B, representing the City and Borough of Juneau.
If you are up on Alaska politics, you will know that the Democrats in the state legislature put forward one name and one name only as replacement for state Senator Kim Elton who was picked for a post in the Obama administration. They suggested Representative Beth Kerttula. Instead of accepting their suggestion, Palin asked for any and all interested parties to submit applications for the seat. Instead of picking someone who is already an elected official from Juneau, she has picked someone who
"........has worked as a commercial fisherman and serves as chief of staff to Alaska State Senator Lyman Hoffman. He [Grussendorf] is currently president of the Southeast Alaska Fishermen’s Alliance and a board member of the Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association."
Mr. Grussendorf is probably a fine upstanding citizen, but he seems to have been put in the middle of conflict between the governor and Democrats in the legislature. The press release concludes:
Grussendorf is married with two teenaged sons who are involved in Juneau sports teams. He must be confirmed by a simple majority of Senate Democrats.Why these two statements belong in the same paragraph is beyond me, but perhaps it is a word processing hiccup.
So a press release about a controversial pick has emerged today, on a Sunday. I didn't know anybody in government offices wrote press releases on the weekends unless there is an emergency of some sort (like say, a volcanic eruption, see below), but the intricacies of government may just be beyond me today.
There are lots of other bloggers who will go into great depth with the meaning of this pick and its implications, so I will let you get it from the more knowledgeable folks who are deep into Alaska politics. But with everything else that has happened lately, it looks as though Governor Palin is trying to create a number of fights with her legislature.
Press Releases, What are they good for?
It seems press releases from the governor's office is a theme, as I found some information in a recent post by Andrew Halcro along the same vein. Halcro tells us the state is running on autopilot, and concludes with the news that in the last year the governor's office posted 300 press releases, and there has only one on the health care for children. Since he has already riffed on this melody line, I will add a syncopated rhythm or two. The topic of press releases came to mind when I started looking for additional news sources on a few significant and current events in our state. What I found from the last ten days was some press releases that were worthy of an executive in public office, and some of them...well, not so much. And then, there are the missing press releases, the ones that could and should have been issued....
First we have....the misleading Press Release....which was somewhat inconsistent with many of Governor Palin's comments at the press conference on the stimulus package:
Then we have the 'pick on someone who made a dumb off hand remark' press release:
Some appointments -
My wish list for press releases from the Governor's office:
First we have....the misleading Press Release....which was somewhat inconsistent with many of Governor Palin's comments at the press conference on the stimulus package:
Governor Accepts Half of Stimulus Funds March 19, 2009, Juneau, Alaska - Governor Sarah Palin submitted her federal economic stimulus appropriation bill to legislators today to provide jobs and needed infrastructure improvements in Alaska under the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Governor Palin is accepting just 55 percent of the available stimulus funds, all for capital projects.Actually, this turned out to be an acceptance of more than 60% including some medicaid funding that somehow got left out of the total. Then we have the press release to correct the impression made by the first press release...
Palin Looks Forward to Public Discussion
March 20, 2009, Juneau, Alaska - Governor Sarah Palin today reaffirmed her desire to generate public discussion and to work with legislators on identifying any additional spending from the federal stimulus package that Alaska could sustain with state money once stimulus funds have expired.
Then we have the 'pick on someone who made a dumb off hand remark' press release:
Comments on President’s Remarks on LenoDo we need to be reminded that this statement is released while the Governor is waffling over whether or not to accept funding for education, including assitance for special needs children? What is it that speaks louder than words?
March 20, 2009, Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sarah Palin responded to remarks made last night by President Obama related to the Special Olympics on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”Details >
Some appointments -
Governor Announces Board AppointmentsSome accusations and anger....................this press release prompted a hate campaign by Palin followers against an Alaska citizen who filed a legitimate ethics complaint.
March 20, 2009, Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sarah Palin today announced appointments to the Alaska Historical Records Advisory Board, Alaska Railroad Corporation Board of Directors, Alaska Council on Emergency Medical Services, Citizens’ Advisory Commission on Federal Areas, Subsistence Resources Commissions, and Wood-Tikchik State Park Management Council
Latest Bogus Ethics ComplaintSomething worthy of a governor....
March 24, 2009, Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sarah Palin issued the following statement in response to another ethics complaint filed today. Filed by an Anchorage political blogger, the complaint alleges the governor “… improperly used her position and state resources to serve her personal financial interests by being a walking billboard for Arctic Cat ...”Details >
Governor Urges Army to Fund ATG BenefitsThe governor declares WAR...................so now we know who will be looking at those ethics complaints.
March 24, 2009, Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sarah Palin today encouraged the Secretary of the Army to permanently reinstate retirement payments to former members of the Alaska Territorial Guard. In the alternative, the governor urged the secretary to fund the program through the end of the calendar year.Details >
Wayne Anthony Ross Named Alaska AGThe governor blames the legislature for missing a meeting she canceled....
March 26, 2009, Anchorage, Alaska – Governor Sarah Palin today announced the appointment of Wayne Anthony Ross as Attorney General.Details >
Governor Comments on StimulusSomething governor-like................
March 26, 2009, Anchorage, Alaska - Governor Sarah Palin was scheduled to participate telephonically in a meeting with legislative leadership today when legislative leaders cancelled the meeting to host their own press conference.Details >
Alaska’s Exports Remain StrongThen the press release that announced the appointment of someone not chosen by the Dems to fill one of their vacancies - seems to be picking a fight. See Sunday Special post above.
March 26, 2009, Anchorage, Alaska - Governor Sarah Palin today announced another strong year for Alaska’s trade performance. The value of the state’s exports reached $3.6 billion in 2008, the fourth-best year ever for exports.Details >
My wish list for press releases from the Governor's office:
Volcanic Eruption: Something, anything about the volcanic activity at Mt. Redoubt and state preparations if needed to assist communities which may be affected by ashfall.Those are some of the press releases I would have liked to have seen from my governor.
Potential Oil Spill: Something, anything about steps being taken to watch over the oil storage facility at the base of Mt. Redoubt. Chevron says there are 6 million gallons of oil in the tanks and the facility has been evacuated for the safety of the workers. The river that winds next to the facility has had two or three flash floods since the volcano started erupting and the facility is in the path of mudflows that have already been pressuring the protective dikes.
Katherine Wade: And, last but not least, something, anything to acknowledge to loss of Katherine Wade, an Athabascan elder who passed last Sunday. Katherine Wade, who helped start the first tribal school in Alaska. Katherine Wade, who made sure her native tongue would survive to be passed on to future generations. Katherine Wade who received many awards for her efforts, including one from the Governor of Alaska in 2007.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
AKM is our Friend, and we will NOT be Distracted
The story on the revealing of the identity of the previously anonymous writer of The Mudflats blog continues and the list of sites and news sources who have picked up the story seems to be growing by the hour. The administrators at The Mudflats forum are in a flurry of activity maintaining and upgrading the site.
I want to thank again the many conservative writers, bloggers and some Team Sarah members who have shown up on comment sections defending the privacy rights and Freedom of Speech of our Alaska blogger, AKM.
I also will continue to advocate that those of us who are supporting AKM will take the high road to the best of our abilities in all communications about this issue. The discourse of divisiveness is killing us, sometimes literally, and we must do our absolute best to staunch its effects in our society. We are presented, once again, with an excellent opportunity to do so.
And, I seem to be developing a refrain - and a request for all those energized by this issue. PLEASE continue to advocate as well for the many vitally important issues before us. We have done tremendous good for some of the rural Alaska communities. We have a great chance to do more.
As I posted on the Mudflats forum:
Thank you for reading and God Bless - WfAK
I want to thank again the many conservative writers, bloggers and some Team Sarah members who have shown up on comment sections defending the privacy rights and Freedom of Speech of our Alaska blogger, AKM.
I also will continue to advocate that those of us who are supporting AKM will take the high road to the best of our abilities in all communications about this issue. The discourse of divisiveness is killing us, sometimes literally, and we must do our absolute best to staunch its effects in our society. We are presented, once again, with an excellent opportunity to do so.
And, I seem to be developing a refrain - and a request for all those energized by this issue. PLEASE continue to advocate as well for the many vitally important issues before us. We have done tremendous good for some of the rural Alaska communities. We have a great chance to do more.
As I posted on the Mudflats forum:
So let's do the right thing and leave the accusations and inflammatory rhetoric behind. Sarah Palin's recent press releases and Mike Doogan's emails have already covered that ground. Let's break a new trail and show them that we are a community of people who will rise above those tactics and turn the attention brought to the blogging community through Doogan's thoughtless action to a good purpose.
I was thinking this morning about how immature it was for Doogan to do such a ridiculous thing particularly at this point in the legislative session, with so much on the table. He obviously had no idea what a firestorm it would create.
When we communicate with the Alaska state legislature - let's be mindful of what else is on the table and use this opportunity to show OUR INTEGRITY by supporting them in standing up to Palin when it comes to the stimulus funds and her other debacles - Doogan's actions are part of a way of operating that is destructive to the state, and has been pointed out, fits a pattern of other behaviors that are counter productive beyond belief. We don't have to look like we are just upset because someone hurt our friend, we can stand together to take on the big picture issues. We have a chance to really get their attention and let the rest of the country and the world know that we will stand up for AKM, but that we are a community who will not forget rural Alaska, the children of our state, and others who need our help and support. Let's really take the high road. Doogan has created his own mess- let's help clean up the rest.
Thank you for reading and God Bless - WfAK
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